Wildwood State Park Campground offers diverse camping experiences on Long Island's north shore from April through October. The 600-acre park features wooded campsites with access to the Long Island Sound. Sites include tent camping areas, RV hookups, and cabin options with modern bathrooms and shower facilities. Multiple hiking trails connect through the park, providing access to both forest and shoreline environments.
What to do
Beach exploration: At Smith Point County Park, visitors can access both ocean and bay shorelines within walking distance of campsites. "A short walk from the ocean to the bay, both accessible by walking from your campsite," notes Ali O. The park's location offers unique wildlife viewing opportunities, with one camper mentioning, "you get visits from the nearby deer."
Fishing opportunities: The rocky shoreline at Wildwood State Park and nearby water access points provide fishing spots for anglers. "The North Shore experience with high bluffs, sandy calm beaches along the Long Island Sound, and views of CT across the water," explains Amber A. from Wildwood, who adds that the park offers "pretty good birding" for wildlife enthusiasts.
Local attractions: Indian Island County Park serves as a convenient base for exploring regional sites. "Close to the LI aquarium as well! Many stores and a golf course near by too!" notes Janelle G. The North Shore region includes wineries, farm stands, and cultural sites within short driving distance.
What campers like
Direct water access: The proximity to beaches ranks high among camper preferences. At Wildwood State Park Campground, James O. explains, "It is right at the entrance to wine country on Long Island and has a beach on the Long Island Sound. (A little rocky on the north shore)." Sites with water views are particularly valued, with many glamping options offering enhanced beach access.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained restrooms and shower facilities receive consistent positive mentions. "The bathrooms were clean, and the shower was hot," writes Maxime T. about Indian Island County Park, while Amber A. notes that Wildwood has "among the most modern bathrooms I've seen at a State Park campground."
Family-friendly environment: Many campers appreciate the safety and activities for children. "The kids who work here are so friendly and the playground is nice. They did a show on the beach one night that was fun too," reports Nick H. about Riverdale Farm Campsites, which offers organized activities like bingo and beach events.
What you should know
Site privacy varies: Campsite spacing and natural barriers differ significantly between parks. Courtney K. notes about Wildwood, "It doesn't have that much of the camping feel, though, as there's not many trees in the campsite area and the sites are so close together." Similarly, at Smith Point, Karen R. observes, "Close sites with no privacy. Short walk to beach."
Fire ring policies: Several campgrounds have specific fire regulations. Megan B. mentions about Wildwood, "A little bit of a bummer on the rental for a firepit," while Maxime T. notes about Indian Island, "The campsites don't come with a fire ring. Not sure if this is because of maintenance, but it just wasn't super apparent until we got there."
Seasonal considerations: Most glamping near Setauket operates seasonally. Mountain Lakes Park offers yurt accommodations as an alternative glamping option. Ethan K. explains, "A fun option available at Mountain lakes is to rent a yurt to camp in. The area, as the name implies, is home to several lakes which can be used for various recreational purposes."
Tips for camping with families
Beach preparation: Water conditions require specific gear at north shore beaches. "The beach is fairly clean and has a small boardwalk," notes Giselle P. about Wildwood, while another camper advises, "very rocky, bring your water shoes" for comfortable shoreline exploration.
Activity planning: Multiple playgrounds and organized events keep children entertained. "Lots of activities for the kids on weekends and holidays," reports a Riverdale Farm visitor. Another camper mentions, "There are a lot of seasonal residents, but still plenty of open sites for travelers. There is a playground, game room, 'adult' lounge, a laundry, a swimming pond, and river access for fishing and swimming."
Site selection: Corner or waterfront sites offer more space for families. At Smith Point County Park, Gianna recommends, "Amazing sites with plenty of room, though they are close together. But was worth it for the amenities and fantastic views. Stayed on the bayside (site 30), which had a fantastic direct bay view."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Electric and water connections vary between campgrounds. "RV pull through sites were fantastic. It was a great campground for maiden voyage in new rig. Plenty of amenities," shares Lori R. about Wildwood. For full hookups, plan accordingly as not all sites offer complete services.
Site leveling: Many campgrounds feature relatively level sites. Patrick C. from Smith Point explains, "Our 36ft motorhome backed up to a raised balcony overlooking the bay. Less than 100 feet from the front of our site was the beach and the Atlantic Ocean view." Site dimensions accommodate various RV sizes, though big rigs may find navigation challenging at some facilities.
Reservation timing: Book well in advance, especially for waterfront locations. "Recently they became very stringent about parking two vehicles at the site making it very difficult to visit with a family and 2 vehicles," warns Giselle P. about Wildwood State Park, highlighting the importance of understanding specific park policies before arrival.
